What you need to know before you go.

If you’re going to study in the UK, it’s important to learn about its culture beforehand. When we ask people what they expect British culture to be like, many mention things like "gentlemanly manners" or Harry Potter. However, this view is a bit outdated. While people in the UK are generally polite and kind, it's important to recognise that, like any country, there’s diversity in attitudes and behaviours, and generalisations don’t always hold. You may have seen reports of anti-immigration protests, which can be worrying, but it’s important to remember that these protests represent a minority. In fact, many cities have seen counter-protests from those who welcome international visitors.

With that said, learning about UK culture before you arrive and being aware of certain cultural norms can help ensure a smooth and welcoming experience. Here are some key things to keep in mind:

Etiquette & Politeness

British people are generally very polite and value good manners. It’s important to remember your 'Ps' and 'Qs' (please and thank yous) and to treat people with respect.

Additionally, the British way of speaking can be more indirect compared to languages in Asia-Pacific. For instance, in some cultures, it’s fine to say “I want that” at a restaurant, but in the UK, it’s more polite to say, “Could I have that, please?” or “I’d like to order this, please.”

Queueing (lining up) is also a big part of British culture. Whether at a café, bar, train station, or bank, jumping the queue is considered very improper and will annoy others.

Social Interactions

When meeting new people, engage in small talk about general topics like the weather, sports, or weekend plans. It’s not appropriate to ask personal or political questions when first meeting someone. Show interest in what others are saying by asking follow-up questions and keeping the conversation positive.

Avoid giving one-word answers, which can come off as curt or rude. For example:

“Hi, how are you today?”
“I’m fine, thank you. It’s a beautiful day, right? How about you?”

Another important aspect of social interactions is punctuality. While being slightly late to meetings may be accepted in some Asian cultures, in the UK, lateness is often viewed negatively. Plan your route ahead of time to avoid being late.

Cultural Diversity

The UK is very diverse, and you’ll likely meet fellow students from all over the world with different views and backgrounds. With over 300 languages spoken in the UK, diversity is celebrated, and it’s important to be respectful of other cultures. Show an interest in people’s backgrounds, and if appropriate, ask them to share more about themselves. Also, the UK champions equality and LGBTQ+ rights.

Intercultural communication is a valuable skill for employers, and studying in the UK gives you the chance to develop it by meeting people from different backgrounds. Joining clubs, societies, or meet-ups is a great way to expand your social circle.

Humour

British humour is often dry and sarcastic, and you may encounter 'banter'—light-hearted teasing. Don’t take it too seriously; in fact, if someone engages in banter with you, it’s usually a sign that they like you. Just remember to keep the tone playful and positive. Avoid making jokes that are too personal or offensive, especially with strangers, as that may not be well-received. We think this blog post about banter is worth a read.

Food & Drink

The UK’s food often gets a bad reputation, but there are some great British dishes to try, like roast dinners, full English breakfasts, pie and chips, sausage and mash, and, of course, fish and chips. Interestingly, chicken tikka masala is considered the UK’s favorite dish, reflecting its love of international cuisine.

You’ll find plenty of international restaurants in most cities, and many supermarkets carry ingredients from all over the world, so don’t worry about missing home comforts.

The UK also excels in desserts. Be sure to try sticky toffee pudding and some of the amazing chocolates available.

Tipping at restaurants isn’t mandatory, but leaving around 10% is a nice way to show appreciation for good food and service.

Weather

The UK’s weather is famously unpredictable, often cold and rainy. Don’t plan outdoor activities too far in advance, as a sunny day can quickly turn rainy. Be sure to pack warm clothes for autumn and winter. Summers, on the other hand, are beautiful, with long days that can last until 10 or 11 p.m.

Public Transport

Taxis in the UK can be expensive, so most people rely on buses, trains, or cycling to get around. Many universities offer bicycle rentals, or you can check websites like Gumtree or Freecycle for affordable secondhand bikes. Cycling is a great way to explore, stay active, and save money.

Festivals & Events

During the summer, the UK hosts a range of music and arts festivals, which you can find through Google or Facebook pages. Attending festivals is a fun way to experience UK culture.

Additionally, be sure to catch sporting events, especially football matches, which are a big part of British culture.

Pub Culture

Pubs are a central part of British social life, even if you don’t drink alcohol. Many pubs offer non-alcoholic options and are places where people gather to socialise, listen to music, or watch sports. They’re also a great refuge from the rain, with many pubs being historic and hundreds of years old. If you’re looking to meet people, a pub is often a good bet.

Conclusion

Studying in the UK is not just about earning a prestigious degree; it's also an opportunity to immerse yourself in a rich and diverse culture. By understanding British norms and customs, you'll be better prepared to navigate social interactions, adapt to a new environment, and make the most of your time abroad. Whether it's developing new friendships, exploring different foods, or honing valuable intercultural communication skills, your UK experience will shape you in ways that go far beyond academics. Embrace the journey, stay open-minded, and you'll come back home with much more than just a certificate — you'll return with lifelong memories and the confidence to succeed in a globalised world.